By FATIMA HUSSEIN (Associated Press)
WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. and U.K. implemented additional sanctions on Iran on Thursday due to concerns that Tehran's unprecedented assault on Israel may lead to a broader war in the Middle East. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control targeted 16 individuals and two organizations in Iran involved in producing engines for the drones used in the April 13 attack on Israel . OFAC also penalized five companies in the steel production industry and three subsidiaries of Iranian carmaker Bahman Group, which is accused of materially supporting Iran’s military and other banned groups. A representative from Bahman was not immediately available for comment.
Also, the U.K. is aiming at several Iranian military branches and individuals connected to Iran’s drone and ballistic missile industries. President Joe Biden stated that he had directed the U.S. Treasury to keep imposing sanctions that weaken Iran’s military industries. He also warned all those who assist Iran’s attacks that the U.S. will not hesitate to hold them accountable.U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak mentioned that the sanctions would further limit Iran’s ability to disrupt the region.
In addition to Treasury’s penalties, the U.S. Commerce Department is placing new restrictions to limit Iran’s access to basic commercial grade microelectronics, which apply to items made outside the U.S. using U.S. technology.
Previously, U.S. officials had indicated they were preparing new sanctions in response to Iran’s activities in the region and to prevent future attacks. Lawmakers on Capitol Hill have also been swiftly advancing legislation to financially punish Iran and its leaders.
Iran’s attack on Israel early Sunday was in retaliation for what it claims was an Israeli attack on Iran’s consulate in Syria earlier this month. Israel’s military chief stated Monday that his country will respond to the Iranian attack, while world leaders advise against retaliation to prevent an escalation of violence.
European Union leaders also pledged on Wednesday to increase sanctions on Iran, targeting its drone and missile deliveries to allies in Gaza, Yemen and Lebanon.
EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell mentioned that the existing EU sanctions regime would be reinforced and expanded to punish Tehran and help prevent future attacks on Israel, while urging Israel to show restraint. “I don’t want to exaggerate, but we are on the edge of a war, a regional war in the Middle East, which will be sending shockwaves to the rest of the world, and in particular to Europe,” he warned. “So stop it.” The U.S. has